Mills calls for peace and unity in NDC

President John Evans Atta Mills on Wednesday underscored the need for peace and unity in the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), as vital forces for its progress.

He expressed sorrow at the death of Alhaji Sumani Zakari, Northern Regional Chairman of the party, and urged activists and sympathizers of the party to let his demise be an inspiration to promote peace in the party.

“Let us use the moment of grief to promote peace, unity and dialogue in the party”, President Mills said.

He made the appeal when a delegation of family members and Northern Regional Executive Committee of the NDC officially inform him of the death of Alhaji Zakari and the funeral arrangement at the Osu Castle, in Accra.

Alhaji Zakari, affectionately called “Suffer to Gain” died on November 8, this year after a protracted illness.

President Mills stressed the need for the use of dialogue to address differences in the party.

Extolling the virtues Alhaji Zakari, President Mills said the man was someone who promoted dialogue and peace, and said challenges and differences in the party could be addressed amicably through peaceful dialogue.

He eulogised the late Alhaji Zakari as a “great diplomat who held the party together” in the Northern Region.

“We have lost a great leader, a friend and a brother who served his people, the party and the nation well. Alhaji Zakari stood for peace”, President Mills said, and urged the party members in the Northern Region to honour his memory by forging ahead in peace.

President Mills assured the family of the necessary support during the final funeral rites of Alhaji Zakari who has since been buried in Tamale in accordance with Islamic tradition on November 21.

Vice President John Dramani Mahama, described the deceased as a very respectful and resourceful person who devoted his time to help others.

“His departure has created a vacuum”, he said, and prayed that his successor would build on the foundation he had laid.

Mr Moses Mabenba, Northern Regional Minister, who led the delegation, on behalf of the family, thanked President Mills for his personal support for the deceased as he battled with ill health.

The late Alhaji Zakari, 75, was elected Northern Regional Chairman of the party in 2005 and was instrumental in increasing the number of seats in Parliament in the Region from 17 to 22.

He is also credited for the harmonisation of interests of all the factions that existed within the party in the Region and supported the party tremendously to win Election 2008.

Described as a gifted politician and businessman, Alhaji Zakari left behind 29 children and four wives.

Source: GNA